Mindset Transformation: Karim Rushdy on Overcoming Adversity and Embracing a Beginner's Mindset | Episode 21

On today’s episode, we have the pleasure of exploring resilience and mindfulness with our special guest, Karim Rushdy. Our conversation centres around his inspiring journey of transformation through challenges, including years of chronic back pain and a significant financial loss. We talk about the profound impact of cultivating a beginner’s mindset, re-framing life’s obstacles and achieving excellence through the practice of mindfulness has had on his life.

Karim is a mindfulness teacher, facilitator, and strategy advisor with extensive experience in Asia and the UK. After leaving university in England, he studied Mandarin in Shanghai and joined a restaurant start-up, which grew significantly before succumbing to the impacts of COVID-19 - a humbling lesson in resilience. He later earned an MBA from a leading Chinese business school and became Managing Director at a pan-Asian think tank, overseeing projects on business, policy and sustainability whilst leading leadership programs across 15 countries.

In 2013, meditation helped Karim overcome his chronic back pain, inspiring a shift in his perspective. Now, he teaches mindfulness to elite athletes, corporate leaders, and teams with Mindful Peak Performance (MPP), and serves as a Trustee at Breathworks, a mindfulness charity focused on managing pain and illness.

Karim’s insights on harmonising personal and professional growth, emphasising gratitude, service and authentic connections as cornerstones of a fulfilling life are powerful lessons. Tune in to uncover how mindfulness and a growth mindset can empower you to turn adversity into opportunities for growth and success. 

In this episode:

00:15:48 - 'No Mud, No Lotus' & ‘The Beginner's Mindset’ – theories behind the Buddhist metaphors, linking personal growth to overcoming adversities, and the significance of maintaining a beginner's mindset for continued success.

00:27:33 - Coaching & the growth mindset - the benefits of working with coaches to access growth zones and how mindfulness contributes to personal development and 'getting out of your own way.'

00:39:05 - Overcoming back pain - Karim recounts his struggle with debilitating back pain and depression, leading to a transformative journey involving mindfulness and meditation practices.

00:53:21 - The Four Buckets approach - Karim's framework for a balanced life.

01:09:42 - Resilience, financial loss & reflective gratitude - emphasising the role of gratitude and mindfulness in maintaining resilience and a positive outlook despite significant setbacks.

Connect with Karim here:

www.karim-rushdy.com

www.mindfulpeakperformance.com

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